Giddy Up

Have you ever noticed that once you've had fun doing something - THAT THING is ALWAYS fun to remember? I can feel the anticipation building as we pulled in to the grocery store parking lot in downtown Hopkins, MN. We didn't shop there often, but i

t was right 

down from the Ben Franklin dime store that sold penny candy. A horse lived in front of Tait's Super Valu. A metal painted horse who gave jolting rides. A seat that got egg-fry hot in the summer. And stirrups that couldn't contain the movements of a laughing child.

 The appeal to my mother for nickels was an easy win. But only two. Just one ride was never long enough.

Every time we eat at the Ox Yoke Inn, I notice this horse. He's parked silently in the dark entrance. Smile! This time I was ready with my camera. My husband silently walked away and was sitting down for at least five minutes before I joined him. I didn't ride the horse, because I just couldn't fit. Yes, I actually tried. Instead I hollered "giddy-up" and took a few photos.